Downtown condo tour

WOOSTER -- Warm, cozy and comfortable were some recurring descriptions of the model condominium at the Merchants Block development downtown.

Mike Rose, developer at Washington Properties, gave a first glimpse of the completed unit as he begins marketing the 12 condos that comprise the top two floors of the nearly finished final piece to downtown.

"From the start we had a vision of what we wanted to see ... we wanted to create a building that fits into downtown, that was timeless, and blended in with the architectural style," Rose said from a couch inside the model unit. "I think we accomplished that."

All told, the development is fitted with 12 condos with four sold to-date. Rose said he is working through a list of 60 qualified buyers to get the others sold. He noted of the three people who have seen the model, two went on to make purchases.

"When they're gone, they're gone," he said.

Generally, Rose said, buyers have been empty-nesters who are looking to downsize their homes to more manageable spaces and "simplify their lives."

"Midwest communities with colleges seem to be the draw right now," Rose noted, especially ones with urban settings. Nearby assets such as The College of Wooster and Wayne County Public Library, plus numerous restaurants add to the appeal he explained.

Each condo is a two-story unit with a garage. Space for an elevator is built in if requested by the buyer. Actually, he noted, each surface and flooring can be customized to fit the needs of the buyer. For instance, counter-tops in the kitchen, appliances and floors can be selected throughout.

Each condo has a living room and kitchen in an open space on the main floor of the residences, or second story on the overall building. A half-bathroom and fireplace also round out the main floor. A private terrace for each condo also overlook the north side of the building.

The model unit comes with a bay window allowing owners to look down over West Liberty Street, as one of the unique features. Rose explained each condo has a bay window due to the arrangement of the overall design.

For example, the corner unit boasts extra windows since it sits at the western end of the block overlooking the Liberty-Walnut streets area.

The third floor comes complete with two bedrooms, each with its own full bathroom.

"The other thing that is important to me and Washington Properties is quality," Rose said. "I try to get the most talented people on these units. ... I think that's reflected here. It's just good quality."

Rose also was proud of being able to use mainly local companies and workers to complete the project.

Each condo is roughly 2,600 square feet, but that includes the terrace and garage space. Rose said they are being sold for $229,000-$249,000 generally, and the final price will be based on customizations.

He and Washington Properties spokesperson Neil Coutiaux said there are no property taxes for nearly 10 years, and because of historically low interest rates, mortgage payments can be cheaper than downtown rents on apartments.

Reporter Steve Huszai can be reached at 330-287-1645 or shuszai@the-daily-record.com. He is @GeneralSmithie on Twitter.

Want to leave your comments?

Here's how it works: People sign up for the waiting list. Then the model opens, they inspect, and hopefully buy. As the model didn't open until the second week of December (heading into the holidays), there hasn't been much opportunity for additional buyers to take a look around. But that is happening and additional sales will occur. Regarding the cost, many of the folks expressing interest want to "simplify" (a Boomer mantra) and do not want the headache and cost of maintaining a lawn, etc. What they do want is immediate access to restaurants, city offices, downtown events, et al. And that they get. And the condos are custom-tailored to meet their tastes.

January 7, 2013 7:08AM

My thoughts exactly.... if they've only sold two and they say 60 on a waiting list, I'm not sure I believe this. If there are 60 people waiting why haven't they sold them. Way over priced!!

January 6, 2013 6:26PM

Buckeye70, I'm wondering the same thing. WHO in Wooster is going to buy these?? 2600sf is a family sized dwelling, but what family is bringing down that kind of salary in Wooster that doesn't also need more than a one car garage. The pictures show that they are absolutely gorgeous...just hope they sell.

January 6, 2013 4:47PM

Beautiful condos. But I wonder what kind of market there is in Wooster for a $250,000 downtown condo with a one car garage. If you can afford that much for a house there are better options in Wooster. Plus, to not hold or appreciate in value like a house does. The Merchant's block building is beautiful. However, I think Mr. Rose has bitten off more than he can chew. No tennents downstairs except of a yogurt place. He claims 4 of 12 condos sold. Not a very fast start. I fear we are going to be looking at empty store frotns in Wooster for some time to come.